Is Denmark Expensive? The Truth About Cost of Living in Denmark

Is Denmark expensive to live in? If you’re considering living in or visiting Denmark, you’ll likely be curious about the cost of living in Denmark. The answer is yes. Denmark is known for its high cost of living, particularly in cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus, which rank among the most expensive in Europe. 

Copenhagen alone often appears on lists of the world’s priciest cities. But it’s not all about the costs. Denmark balances its expenses with high salaries, particularly in Copenhagen, where average monthly earnings reach 53,000 DKK (roughly 7,850 USD). 

Food Costs in Denmark

Denmark is known for its high cost of living, and food expenses are no exception. Here’s a breakdown of average food prices in Denmark:

Grocery Prices

• Milk (1 liter): Approximately 13 DKK
• Loaf of fresh white bread (500g): Around 22 DKK
• Rice (1 kg): About 16 DKK
• Eggs (12): Roughly 32 DKK
• Local cheese (1 kg): Approximately 88 DKK
• Chicken fillets (1 kg): Around 76 DKK
• Beef round (1 kg): About 111 DKK
• Apples (1 kg): Approximately 21 DKK
• Bananas (1 kg): Around 22 DKK
• Oranges (1 kg): About 23 DKK
• Tomatoes (1 kg): Approximately 27 DKK
• Potatoes (1 kg): Around 15 DKK
• Onions (1 kg): About 13 DKK
• Lettuce (1 head): Approximately 14 DKK

These prices are averages and can vary depending on the city and the store.

Dining Out

• Inexpensive restaurant meal: Around 150 DKK
• Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: Approximately 700 DKK
• Combo meal at a fast food restaurant: About 94 DKK

Dining out in Denmark, especially in cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus, can be quite expensive.

Cost of Accommodation in Denmark

In addition to food costs, we must review accommodation costs in Denmark to justify why the answer to “Is Denmark expensive?” is yes. 

Average Rent Prices in Denmark 

Copenhagen

• One-bedroom apartment in city center: Approximately 8,324 DKK per month.
• One-bedroom apartment outside city center: Around 6,034 DKK per month.
• Three-bedroom apartment in city center: About 14,141 DKK per month.
• Three-bedroom apartment outside city center: Approximately 11,010 DKK per month.

Aarhus

• Large apartment: Around 12,155 DKK per month.
• Medium apartment: Approximately 9,295 DKK per month.
• Small apartment: About 6,006 DKK per month.

Average Rent by City

In 2023, the average monthly rent per square meter in selected Danish cities was as follows:

• Copenhagen: 22.4 euros (approximately 167 DKK).
• Aarhus: 17.9 euros (around 133 DKK).
• Odense: 14.6 euros (about 109 DKK).
• Aalborg: 13.5 euros (approximately 101 DKK).

Other Housing Costs in Denmark 

Utilities for an 85 m² apartment average 1,300 DKK monthly. Internet? That’s another 260 DKK a month. On top of that, landlords typically ask for a deposit of up to three months’ rent and an additional three months of prepaid rent.

Finding Housing in Denmark 

It’s competitive out there, especially in Copenhagen. Start your search early, use platforms like BoligPortal or Lejebolig, and make sure to check if rent caps apply. Denmark’s housing market is straightforward, but understanding these basics will save you time—and money.

Is Denmark Expensive in Terms of Medical and Dentist Prices?

Healthcare in Denmark is mostly free, thanks to its tax-funded system. Residents get access to general practitioners, hospital treatments, and specialist care without paying out of pocket. But there are exceptions. Dental care, for instance, isn’t fully covered for adults. If you’re over 18, expect to pay for most treatments yourself—anywhere from 35% to 100% of the cost, depending on the procedure. For kids and teens under 18, though, dental care is free under the municipal system.

Prescription medications outside of hospitals? Those aren’t free either. There are subsidies to help, with the amount increasing based on how much you spend annually. But you’ll still be paying something. As for private insurance, it’s common enough. Around 40% of Danes have it to cover extra things like dental, physiotherapy, or medication. Premiums typically run about 130 DKK (roughly 20 USD) per month.

Out-of-pocket costs make up around 14% of total healthcare spending in Denmark. That’s lower than the EU average, but it still adds up, especially for things like dental work or medical devices like glasses and hearing aids. If you want to avoid surprises, it’s worth looking into private insurance. It won’t break the bank but could save you a lot on those extras Denmark’s public system doesn’t handle.

Is Denmark Expensive When It Comes to Transportation Costs?

Getting around Denmark isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s efficient and reliable. 

Public Transport

Denmark’s public transport runs on a zone system. In Copenhagen, for example, a basic 2-zone ticket costs 24 DKK and covers most city trips. If you’re heading further out, like to Roskilde or Elsinore, expect to pay 84 DKK for an 8-zone ticket. 

For unlimited travel, the City Pass is a good deal. You pay 80 DKK for 24 hours in zones 1-4, and you have different ticket options that are valid for up to five days. If you’re sticking around for a while, consider getting the Rejsekort. It’s an electronic card that gives discounts on buses, trains, and the metro.

Cycling

Bikes are practically a way of life in Denmark. Renting a bike costs anywhere from 75 to 150 DKK per day. Some cities also have bike-sharing services, which are cheaper if you’re cycling short distances regularly.

Taxis

Taxis start at 35-45 DKK, with an additional 15-20 DKK per kilometer. A short ride within the city can easily cost 150 to 200 DKK. They’re convenient but not budget-friendly.

Intercity Travel

Denmark’s train system is solid. For long trips, book in advance to snag ‘Orange’ tickets, which can be as low as 99 DKK. A trip from Copenhagen to Esbjerg, for instance, is a bargain if you plan ahead.

Domestic flights are available but rarely necessary. Trains usually make more sense—cheaper, easier, and faster when you factor in airport hassle.

Driving

If you’re driving, budget for bridge tolls. The Great Belt Bridge connecting Zealand and Funen costs 245 DKK for a car, while the Øresund Bridge to Sweden sets you back 360 DKK. Not cheap, but essential for certain routes.

Saving Tips

Monthly travel cards are a lifesaver for regular public transport users. For longer train journeys, always book early for the best rates. Apps like Rejseplanen are handy for planning routes and finding the cheapest options.

Transportation in Denmark isn’t the cheapest, but it’s convenient and runs like clockwork. Plan ahead, and you can keep costs manageable while enjoying the ride.

Is Denmark Expensive in Terms of the Cost of Education?

Education in Denmark is affordable, but the costs depend largely on where you’re from. If you’re from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, education at all levels is free. That includes universities, which is a rarity in many countries. Non-EU/EEA students, however, are looking at tuition fees ranging from €6,000 to €16,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.

Living expenses are another story. In Copenhagen, you’ll need between €1,280 and €1,800 monthly for accommodation, food, transport, and other basics. Smaller cities like Aalborg are cheaper, with costs hovering around €1,000 a month. On top of that, international students need health insurance, which costs about €300 to €600 per year.

For Danish citizens and certain eligible international students, there’s the State Educational Support (SU). It’s a monthly stipend to help cover living expenses, a massive advantage if you qualify.

This country’s education system is world-class, but international students need to plan carefully for tuition and living costs. If you’re from the EU, though, free education is hard to beat.

Cost of Living in Denmark by Region

Denmark’s cost of living depends entirely on where you are. Copenhagen, as you’d expect, is at the top of the expense chart, while smaller towns and rural areas are far more forgiving on your wallet. Let’s break it down.

Copenhagen

If not for the capital city, you wouldn’t be asking, “Is Denmark expensive?” A single person will spend around 18,500 DKK monthly, and that’s without rent. Speaking of rent, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages 12,058 DKK per month. When eating out, a mid-range three-course dinner for two will set you back about 793 DKK. 

Aarhus

The country’s second-largest city, Aarhus, is more affordable than Copenhagen but still pricey. Monthly expenses for one person hover around 14,700 DKK, excluding rent. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about 7,442 DKK per month, and dining out comes to around 644 DKK for a decent meal for two.

Aalborg

Aalborg in North Jutland is a solid choice if you’re looking to save. Living expenses for a single person are estimated at 13,000 DKK monthly. Rent for a city-center one-bedroom apartment averages 5,452 DKK. Dinner for two is roughly 644 DKK.

Odense

Monthly costs for a single person are about 14,500 DKK. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 6,500 DKK. A mid-range meal for two will cost roughly 600 DKK.

Smaller Towns and Rural Areas

Places like Fredericia and Sønderborg are where your money stretches further. General living costs range from 10,000 to 15,000 DKK per month. The lower housing and dining expenses make these areas ideal for budget-conscious living.

Where you live in Denmark has a huge impact on your expenses, so choose wisely depending on your budget and lifestyle.

Is Denmark Expensive? This Sample Budget of Monthly Expenses Will Help You Decide

Still asking, “Is Denmark expensive?” We put together this budget so that you could have a look at how much money you’ll part ways with if you live in Denmark for a month. This budget is just a sample, covering major, likely expenses only. Your actual monthly budget will vary depending on your needs. 

Balancing the Cost of Living in Denmark with Social Benefits

While the straightforward response to the query, “Is Denmark expensive?” is yes, there’s more to the story. High costs come with high returns: state-funded healthcare, free education, generous parental leave, and a robust pension system. These are pillars of a system designed to support its citizens’ well-being.  

When you weigh the costs against the quality of life and societal benefits, you’ll see the full picture. Living in Denmark is about what you get in return for your huge expenses—a stable, thriving environment that invests back into its people. That’s the trade-off, and for many, it’s worth it.

The Impact of Taxes and Social Services

Is Denmark expensive? Sure, but you have to look at the bigger picture. A major factor behind the high costs is Denmark’s tax system—one of the highest globally. Income tax rates reach up to 52%. It sounds steep, but those taxes pay for things like free healthcare, education, and other welfare programs. So, while living in Denmark might feel expensive upfront, those same taxes take care of a lot, balancing out personal expenses in the long run.

Quality of Life Considerations

Is Denmark expensive? Maybe, but consider the quality of life that comes with those costs. Ranked among the safest countries globally on the Global Peace Index, Denmark boasts low crime rates, which contribute to a standard of living that many find worth the expense.

Public services are another factor. Denmark’s public transportation system is efficient and clean, while its cycling infrastructure is world-class, offering practical ways to cut down commuting costs.

Then there’s the work-life balance. With a 37-hour work week and up to 52 weeks of paid parental leave, Denmark ensures that residents enjoy a life that balances professional responsibilities with personal fulfillment. These perks add a layer of value that goes beyond the monetary price tag.

Denmark’s Economic Strength 

Denmark’s economy holds its own. Unemployment hovers at a low 4.5%, ensuring stability and steady incomes for most residents. Denmark’s GDP reached over USD 395 billion in 2022, showing a strong, resilient economy that supports the country’s high living costs.

Even as part of the EU, Denmark has kept the Danish Krone (DKK) instead of switching to the euro. This gives it control over inflation and ensures a steady currency, keeping costs predictable despite global economic fluctuations.

Is Denmark Expensive Compared to Other Countries?

To understand Denmark’s expenses in a global context, it helps to compare them with other developed nations. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Housing: Costs in Copenhagen surpass Madrid but fall short of Zurich.
• Groceries: Higher than Berlin but cheaper than Oslo.
• Public transportation: Less expensive than London while maintaining similar quality.
• Healthcare: More accessible and affordable than in the U.S., with better outcomes.

These comparisons show that while Denmark is expensive, it delivers exceptional value through its robust social systems and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cost of living in Denmark really that high?

Yes, the cost of living in Denmark is undeniably high. In fact, Denmark is considered one of Europe’s expensive countries, with major cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus topping the list of expensive cities in Scandinavia. Expect to pay a bit higher for basic necessities compared to other places in northern Europe, but the high standard of living in Denmark balances this out with access to free healthcare, good public transportation, and a robust labour market.

How much does housing in Denmark cost?

Accommodation in Denmark, especially in larger cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus, can be pricey. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around EUR 1,200 per month, while living outside the city can save a lot of money, with prices dropping to about EUR 800. Students get various accommodation options through dormitories or shared housing, which can be more affordably priced. For the best deals, explore Denmark early or get a name on housing lists.

Are utilities and food costs in Denmark expensive?

Utilities for a small apartment in Denmark typically cost around EUR 150 per month. When it comes to food, supermarkets like Netto, Lidl, and Fakta offer groceries at competitive prices. However, dining out at a cafe or enjoying food markets in major cities can quickly add up. To save money, shop at local supermarkets.

Is public transportation good in Denmark?

Yes, Denmark’s public transport system is reliable and efficient. A train ride or bus ride is easy to navigate in larger cities like Copenhagen and Odense. Public transportation costs around EUR 60–80 for a monthly pass in most cities. If you’re in Denmark for a short time, cycling is also possible and a great way to save a lot of money while exploring the Danish countryside.

Can I afford Danish dental care?

Dental care in Denmark is not free of charge, and prices vary. However, students and young Danes often get discounts for basic treatments. If you have private insurance or access through work, dental care becomes more manageable.

How much do I need for a vacation in Denmark?

A vacation in Denmark can be expensive, especially in cities like Copenhagen or during autumn and winter when indoor activities dominate. Expect to pay premium prices for accommodation and food in the city center. However, it’s also possible to find affordable options in the Danish countryside or smaller cities like Aalborg or Vesterbro.

Is it easy to find work as a foreigner in Denmark?

Finding work as a foreigner in Denmark can be tricky unless you have a sought-after skill or someone who knows someone in the labour market. If you’re immigrating, a student job or applying for a green card might help bridge the gap. Since 2018, Denmark’s labour market has grown steadily, but be prepared to navigate a high tax rate, which funds the country’s extensive social benefits.

What’s the average income in Denmark?

The average income in Denmark is high compared to other Scandinavian countries, making Denmark an attractive option for those willing to pay higher living costs. However, high VAT and tax rates can reduce disposable income significantly.

What are the best ways to explore Denmark on a budget?

To explore Denmark affordably, stick to supermarkets like Netto for groceries and consider cycling or using public transportation for getting around. Visiting spots like Møn or exploring the Danish countryside are also worth your time and won’t break the bank.

What makes Denmark’s standard of living so high?

Denmark’s high standard of living is attributed to access to free healthcare, a strong labour market, and efficient public services like good public transportation. While Denmark is expensive, the overall quality of life makes up for the high costs, ensuring that most Danes enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Is Denmark Expensive? Our Final Thoughts 

In conclusion, asking whether Denmark is expensive misses the bigger picture. High costs come hand-in-hand with a system that prioritizes well-being, security, and societal infrastructure. Although you’ll spend a lot, the Danish society will invest in you. These investments create a foundation for a level of prosperity and an excellent quality of life that few other countries can match.

More Articles to Explore

• Where Is Denmark? Find out Now
• Danish Hygge: How to Find Joy in Simple Things
• 25 Things to Do in Copenhagen that You’ll Love
• 25 Things to Do in Denmark That’ll Make You Happy
• What Are the Best Places to Live in Denmark?
• What Is the Population of Denmark? Current Facts
• What Is the Capital of Denmark? It’s Copenhagen
• Is Denmark One of Scandinavian or Nordic Countries? The Truth
• Danish Abortion Law Permits Free Abortion Till 18th Week of Pregnancy
• How to Move to Denmark from USA Without Stress

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